The Spruce Grove Panthers senior girls volleyball team is ready for a learning experience like no other.

Lead by only four Grade 12 students, the Panthers have battled their way to a 2-3 record in the Metro Edmonton Athletic Association after four games. Outside of league play, the Panthers earned themselves a second place finish in the consolation division at the University of Alberta invitational tournament.

“We only have four grade 12’s and we have two Grade 10’s that start for us. The rest of the girls are in Grade 11, so we’re kind of in a phase where we’re rebuilding our team,” said assistant coach Sue McIntyre*

While keeping up with the top of the table will be a tough test for the young group, there will be plenty of opportunity for players to learn and elevate their game this season.

Their biggest learning opportunity will come on Saturday, when Spruce Grove Composite High School welcomes 23 girls team’s and 25 boys teams from across the country in their own tournament.

“We’re going to be competing against some of the best girls in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. I think this is a really good eye opener for our girls to see that quality of play and for them to know where they need to get to,” said McIntyre.

One team from Norway will also make the trip to Spruce Grove to compete in the event. The Norwegian team will stay in Spruce Grove for 10 days, experiencing all the region has to offer with SGCHS students.

“Last year we had a girls team from Norway. It’s a really fun experience for the kids, and they billet the Norwegian team out. The boys will be staying here for nine or 10 days. They’re going to play in our tournament, then we’re all going to play in another tournament,” said McIntyre. “The kids do a lot together, it’s a great opportunity for them to meet people from other countries.”

After their tournaments, the group will turn their attention to McNally (Wednesday) before taking on St. Peter the Apostle (Oct. 15). They will close out the year with match ups against Sturgeon (Oct. 17), Archbishop Jordan (Oct. 22), and Archbishop MacDonald (Oct. 24).

With such a limited number of games on the league schedule, each will carry major significance in the standings. Currently, five teams are within two wins of second place.

“The season will go until the end of October, and then the beginning of November will be the playoffs. We’re hoping to finish within the top three in tier two, that’s kind of where we’re hoping to end up,” said McIntyre.